The Wackiest Ship in the Army

So many movies from this time frame are just out of step with modern expectations of entertainment. This one is not. It could be re-released and still find a good audience. If you're looking for a good clean movie that tickles the funny bone of parents AND children this is a good choice.

I rented this the other day with the full intention of sitting through a rather cheesy comedy from the early 1960s. That is to say, I wasn't expecting much. Jack Lemmon is always a worthwhile watch, and he plays his captain well. And Rick Nelson does a surprisingly effective job of acting, with subtle glances and gestures. Ever the quiet and polite junior officer, you root for the kid with the heart of gold. It is a humorous and entertaining film, with just the right amount of slapstick without becoming too silly, despite the film's title. And there's a bonus...Rick sings in his usual dreamy style. It's good fun for the whole family. Even today.

While I enjoyed parts of this show, it never really came together for me. There were parts that were almost funny, parts that were almost dramatic, and parts that were almost adventurous.

Jack Lenmmons performance in this show doesn't touch his work in "Mister Roberts" or many of his other movies.

If you like adventures and misadventures set in a wartime setting, you may like this one.

I have always loved this movie, Jack Lemmon is at his comic best, but it needs to be re-released in a wide-screen format. A lot of this Cinemascope presentation is lost in the current pan and scan version.

For those that are Jack Lemon fans this is a must view. Ricky Nelson and Jack went well together. This is an "Easy View" nothing to strain the old noodle. For boaters it is a funny reminder of just how easy things happen. Its message is simple and fun and it has stood the test of time.